30 APR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are weighing the convenience vs the connection to find an optimal balance. Sacrificing one seems like taking a step back in time but limiting the other is detrimental to your health. People need people….I could break out into song here but just trust me. A more recent review of 148 studies concluded that on average having stronger social ties increased the likelihood of an individual's overall survival by as much as 50 percent! You might be a self-proclaimed loner or someone who would rather observe life from afar but the fact is, we need people for emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Relationships with others provide comfort during challenging times, joy during celebrations, and a feeling of connection that enriches life. Additionally, interactions with others offer opportunities for personal growth, learning, and the development of empathy and understanding.  Modern times have really changed the way we interact with others both personally and professionally but has the convenience come at a cost? I say yes, but now I have to convince you. I’m not suggesting we go back to the turn of the century and remove all technology from our houses but I am hoping that you will strive for a healthy balance once you fully understand the pros and cons. Deal? https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-we-are-wired-to-connect/https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2018/04/17/concerns-about-the-future-of-peoples-well-being/https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2023/12/24/loneliness-epidemic-u-s-surgeon-general-solution/71971896007/https://bigthink.com/neuropsych/americans-no-friends/ - Plan Social Activities: Organize gatherings, events, or outings that encourage face-to-face interaction. This could include dinners, game nights, or outdoor activities. - Join Clubs or Groups: Join clubs, classes, or groups based on your interests. This provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and engage in shared activities. - Attend Local Events: Attend community events, festivals, or workshops to meet new people and engage in conversations. - Limit Screen Time: Reduce the amount of time spent on digital devices, which can free up more time for in-person interactions. - Prioritize Face-to-Face Communication: When possible, choose face-to-face communication over digital methods like texting or emailing. - Be Present: When interacting with others in person, be fully present and engaged in the conversation. Put away distractions like phones or laptops. - Seek Out New Experiences: Try new activities or hobbies that involve interacting with others, such as joining a sports team or volunteering. CHALLENGE: Don’t take the easy way out and live your life on the periphery. Step up, reach out, and nurture human connection. It’s the fastest declining commodity. Take the time and invest to reap the greatest rewards life has to offer.   I Know YOU Can Do It!

23 APR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are redefining denial to determine if it’s complicated or just hard. Raise your hand if you’ve gotten stuck in a procrastination loop because to change, let go, and adopt a new behavior is just hard. So hard it feels impossible!  Life doesn’t have to be complicated to be hard. And reducing your options to go or don’t go doesn’t limit your possibilities. Varying degrees and options can sometimes provide too many hiding places for procrastination and denial. Let’s lay it all out in the open and be honest with ourselves, what is preventing you from moving forward? Whether it’s to obtain new skills, build stronger relationships, better your situation, or just open yourself up to what life has in store for you.  You know how sometimes it feels like putting things off or pretending a problem isn't there is just easier? It's because facing a challenge head-on can be scary or uncomfortable. Procrastination gives us a break from the stress or discomfort, even though it often makes things more stressful later on. Denial is similar—it lets us avoid admitting hard truths about ourselves or our situations, which can protect our egos. In the short term, both procrastination and denial can help us deal with tough emotions or situations, but in the long run, they can hold us back from growing and being truly well. Maybe it’s that talk you need to have, or that habit you need to address, or that chore you need to do….none of it sounds fun, it just sounds hard. So you know what they say, out of sight out of mind. Push it back until we “feel” like doing it. Newsflash, it’s hard so you will never feel like doing it. Is it important, is it good for you, is it good for the other person (if there is one) then get out of your own way and stop self-sabotaging progress!  “Whatever you want to do, do it now. There are only so many tomorrows.” — Michael Landon I love reading about history, even historical fiction. The time is accurate even if the characters are fictitious. I love looking back in time because it reminds me of how far we have come. For instance, if my microwave goes out and I have to warm something the old-fashioned way …well then, I like to remember a simpler time when they first had to make a fire by hand to even start their day. You get my gist.  https://www.sourenav.com/blog/is-it-hard-or-is-it-challenginghttps://psychcentral.com/blog/feeling-stuck-in-life-tips-to-move-forwardhttps://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/denial-how-it-hurts-how-it-helps-and-how-to-cope-202307262958#:~:text=In%20dangerous%20or%20unhealthy%20situations,lead%20to%20serious%20health%20consequences. When life feels particularly challenging, it can be tough to navigate through the difficulties. Here are some strategies to help you get over the hump: - Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for emotional support. Talking about your feelings can help you feel less alone. - Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Get enough sleep, eat healthily, exercise, and engage in activities that bring you joy. - Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: If you're feeling overwhelmed, break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Focus on completing one step at a time. - Set Realistic Expectations: Be gentle with yourself and set realistic expectations. It's okay to not be perfect or to need help. - Focus on What You Can Control: Identify aspects of the situation that you can control and focus your energy there. Let go of things that are beyond your control. - Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: These practices can help you stay present and reduce stress and anxiety. - Find Meaning: Reflect on the situation and try to find meaning or lessons that can be learned from it. This can help you see the situation in a more positive light. - Engage in Activities That Bring You Comfort: Whether it's reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature, engaging in activities that bring you comfort can help you cope with difficult times. - Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling to cope, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide you with tools and strategies to better manage your emotions and stress. - Stay Connected: Stay connected with others, even if it's just a brief phone call or text. Social support can be incredibly valuable during tough times. Remember, it's okay to ask for help when you need it. You don't have to go through difficult times alone. CHALLENGE: Put things in perspective, is it complicated or just hard? Finding a balance between negative and positive thinking involves recognizing and challenging extreme thoughts, considering alternative perspectives, and acknowledging both the challenges and the strengths in any situation. It’s time to take action!   I Know YOU Can Do It!

16 APR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are digging into the effects of encouragement on building confidence and self-esteem. The definition: the action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope. Heartwarming huh? Seems like a simple and uplifting definition but so much to unpack here and explore. We focus so much attention on motivation as the key to driving results, staying on task, and completing a mission but how does encouragement factor in?  It's kind of like the chicken and the egg – which comes first, motivation or encouragement? Well, in real life, encouragement often kicks things off. When you're feeling unsure or lacking confidence, a little encouragement can go a long way. It helps you believe that you can actually do something, which then gets you motivated to give it a shot. But hey, sometimes motivation comes first. You might already be pumped up about a goal, and then a bit of encouragement helps you stay on track or get past roadblocks. It’s all about perception and meeting someone where they are. Sometimes encouragement leads the charge and other times, motivation is already there, just waiting for a little boost from some positive vibes. I hope you find this as fascinating as I have for the last seven years. There will be something in here for you, meeting you where you are and something you can pass on, to meet someone else along their journey. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/power-encouragement-michael-kouly-/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8INDZ94QNEhttps://www.daniellebernock.com/5-ways-encouragement-is-powerful/#:~:text=Encouragement%20is%20instilling%20confidence.,and%20faith%20can%20be%20placed.https://startmywellness.com/2023/10/how-does-self-esteem-differ-from-self-confidence/ CHALLENGE: Encouragement is a transformative tool, fostering confidence, resilience, growth, and stronger relationships while improving performance and mental health. So don't hold back, offer words of encouragement, and watch the magic unfold as you create a ripple effect of positivity in the world. I Know YOU Can Do It!

8 APR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…our goal is to find forgiveness so that we may flourish, embracing healing and growth. We’ve all heard it before, holding onto a grudge hurts you more than the other person. Anger begets more anger, and forgiveness and love lead to more forgiveness and love. But forgiving, even ourselves, is no easy business. The seeds of hurt run deep and many make the act of forgiveness but never truly let go and move forward. Fortunately, there is a path and a roadmap to freedom. Start by acknowledging the hurt and your feelings about it. Then, try to understand the perspective of the person who hurt you or your capabilities and accountability. The next step is a decision, decide to forgive, letting go of resentment, and the desire for revenge. When you see the clearing, work on rebuilding trust and moving forward with a focus on healing and growth. Pain is inevitable: suffering is optional. Forgiveness is complex which is both frustrating and assuring. I say this because if taken lightly, we are leading lukewarm lives. With great love comes great sorrow. To be hurt deeply you have to feel deeply so in this it is both a blessing and a curse.  I hold no grudges. I can seriously say that. It might be purely selfish but it takes too much energy and focus to hold onto anger. Oh sure, I’ve been wronged, at least it felt that way but then what… If you can’t get the satisfaction of an authentic apology and penance then how do you move forward? You just do because without a satisfactory resolution, it’s a choice to move on without it. It’s important to understand that people are just people, flawed, imperfect, hopefully evolving and growing at their own rate. Not everyone is going to be on your page, respond as you respond, and do as you do. If you didn’t already know that, let me reiterate, move on! Waiting around for this type of utopia is a worthless vigil.  "Passion and a zest for life are not defined by extremes; even in moments of lukewarm feelings, choose to be slow to anger and quick to forgive, embracing a balanced and compassionate approach to living." https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/human-flourishing/202303/the-power-of-forgivenesshttp://whitepinemountain.com/blog/2019/03/05/mastering-the-skills-of-forgiveness/https://chopra.com/blogs/meditation/13-steps-that-lead-to-forgiveness - Acknowledge the mistake: Recognize and accept that you made a mistake or hurt yourself or others. - Feel the emotions: Allow yourself to feel any guilt, shame, or regret that may arise from the mistake. - Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, recognizing that everyone makes mistakes and that you are worthy of forgiveness. - Reflect and learn: Reflect on the mistake and consider what you can learn from it to avoid repeating it in the future. - Apologize if necessary: If your mistake hurt others, consider apologizing and making amends to those affected. - Let go of perfectionism: Accept that you are human and that making mistakes is a natural part of life. - Focus on the present: Instead of dwelling on the past, focus on the present moment and how you can move forward in a positive way. - Seek support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about your feelings and experiences to gain perspective and support. Forgiving yourself can be a challenging process, but it is an important step toward healing and moving forward in a positive way. CHALLENGE: Forgiveness is a transformative act that can profoundly impact your well-being. By releasing resentment and anger, you free yourself from emotional burdens, leading to increased mental clarity and peace. Embrace forgiveness to cultivate healthier relationships, promote inner healing, and pave the way for a more fulfilling life. I Know YOU Can Do It!  

2 APR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are exploring the importance of connecting and building strong social bridges. No matter where you think you are with your current circles, there is always room to grow, strengthen, and nurture. You may think you’re a loner but we all need someone who has our back, cares what happens to us, and encourages us along our journey. A strong social bridge refers to a meaningful and supportive connection between individuals. It is characterized by trust, mutual respect, and open communication. Strong social bridges provide a sense of belonging, emotional support, and a network of people who can help each other navigate life's challenges. These connections are essential for building a supportive community and promoting overall well-being. When was the last time you looked to your corner for support? It may be time for a little inventory, who’s there for you and who are you there for?  Our World in Data bases the following statistics on if you have a conversation with three new people every single day of your life. If you can keep this up for 73 years, you will get to know 80,000 people. That’s more than a hundred times the number of people you’d know by name. This is still a tiny fraction of the world. After a lifetime of speaking with people, you will have spoken to 0.001% of the world’s population. For every person you’ve had a conversation with, there are still 100,000 people you’ve never spoken to. Even if you don’t have the opportunity to meet three new people every day, that’s a lot of people you will encounter in your lifetime. How do you categorize those relationships? Introductions, acquaintances, friends, best friends, family? What prompts a greater investment of your time, attention, and emotion? https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/10/85-year-harvard-study-found-the-secret-to-a-long-happy-and-successful-life.html#:~:text=Contrary%20to%20what%20you%20might,and%20help%20us%20live%20longer.https://www.betterup.com/blog/how-to-connect-with-peoplehttps://www.linkedin.com/pulse/give-what-you-want-get-enhancing-relationships-brian/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4p_yc-66b-M Being connected with others offers a wide range of social benefits, including: - Emotional Support: Social connections provide a source of emotional support during difficult times, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. - Increased Happiness: Interacting with others can boost mood and overall happiness, leading to a more positive outlook on life. - Reduced Stress: Strong social connections can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mental health. - Improved Self-Esteem: Positive social interactions can enhance self-esteem and feelings of self-worth. - Enhanced Resilience: Social support can enhance resilience, helping individuals cope with challenges and bounce back from adversity. - Better Physical Health: Research suggests that strong social connections are associated with better physical health outcomes, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases. - Longer Life Span: Studies have shown that people with strong social ties tend to live longer than those who are more isolated. - Sense of Belonging: Social connections provide a sense of belonging and community, which can lead to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment. CHALLENGE: Building strong connections is vital for your well-being, as they provide a support system during challenging times, boost your happiness, and enhance your overall mental health. Be intentional and make connections that reduce stress, increase your sense of belonging, and contribute to a longer, more fulfilling life.   I Know YOU Can Do It!

26 MAR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are exploring the impact your mindset has on hope and your future as we lean into producing empowering thoughts. It’s time to stop the hamster wheel of thinking for an important check-in. It’s no secret that our minds are incredibly active, even when we’re sleeping! According to cognitive neuroscientists, we are conscious of only about 5 percent of our cognitive activity, so most of our decisions, actions, emotions, and behavior depends on the 95 percent of brain activity that goes beyond our conscious awareness. It’s time to be intentional and grab a little more of the unconscious market share. We can move in the right direction by shifting our thinking patterns, interrupting negative self-talk, and being willing to embrace the unknown with possibility and hope.  If you’re in a rut and think tomorrow holds no promise but to be a repeat of today, then it will. Henry Ford said, "If you think you can or if you think you can't, either way, you're right". So much of your attitude determines success or failure. I remember leading a support group one night and a participant said, “you can’t just be happy, it doesn’t work that way.” I’m not sure whether that statement is right or wrong and I wasn’t insinuating that one could flip a switch but I was encouraging them to choose to move in that direction and in that…you have a choice.  Understanding the power you possess to alter your thinking and shift your perception can lead to a future where you are the architect of your own success and fulfillment. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-healing-crowd-the-new-science-hope-and-the-power-learned-hopefulness/202209/thinking-habitshttps://news.asu.edu/20210615-solutions-science-hope-more-wishful-thinkinghttps://www.familycentre.org/news/post/10-common-negative-thinking-patterns-and-5-steps-for-change Changing your mindset to impact hope and your future involves several key shifts in thinking and behavior. Here are some ways you can do this: - Focus on the Positive: Train yourself to see the silver lining in every situation. Even in challenging times, there are lessons to be learned and opportunities for growth. - Practice Gratitude: Regularly take time to reflect on the things you are grateful for. This can help shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering a sense of hope and abundance. - Set Realistic Goals: Break down your long-term goals into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrate each milestone you reach, no matter how small, to build momentum and keep hope alive. - Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Instead of seeing failure as a setback, view it as a stepping stone to success. Learn from your mistakes and use them to fuel your determination. - Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Spend time with people who uplift and inspire you. Their positivity can help reinforce your own hopeful outlook. - Visualize Your Future: Take time to envision the future you want for yourself. Visualizing your goals can help make them feel more attainable and keep you motivated. - Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself, especially in times of difficulty. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a friend facing a challenge. - Stay Flexible: Life is unpredictable, and plans may need to change. Stay open to new opportunities and be willing to adapt your goals as circumstances evolve. - Seek Support: Don't be afraid to reach out for help when you need it. Whether it's from friends, family, or a professional, having a support system can provide comfort and hope. CHALLENGE: Your mindset shapes your outlook on life, influencing your sense of hope and belief in the future. Cultivating a positive mindset can fuel your determination and resilience, helping you overcome challenges with optimism. I Know YOU Can Do It!

19 MAR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are aligning our passion with impact to create a purposeful fusion. This idea may feel as impossible as seeing a unicorn or finding the funtain of youth. But remember, we are talking about your passion, not someone else's or some predetermined and assigned passion. But I get it.  Finding your purpose can be a real challenge. Society often pushes us toward more traditional paths, making it tough to explore what really lights us up inside. With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's hard to find a moment to really dig deep and figure out what we're truly passionate about. And let's not forget about the fear factor – the worry of failing or being judged can stop us from taking those leaps of faith into the unknown. Plus, our interests and who we are can change so much over time, adding to the complexity. Finally, not having clear role models or guidance in certain areas can leave us feeling a bit lost. The natural starting point here is to find out what you’re passionate about and for many of us, that could be the biggest challenge. If you’ve spent your life catering to others’ wants, needs, and desires then finding time to do your own deep dive may have been impossible. So for any good journey, let’s start at the beginning.  What brings you joy? What lights your soul on fire? What gives you that feeling of fulfillment? What speaks to your heart? I’m not looking for an immediate answer here but these are all important questions to ponder, sit with, and explore.  Ikigai is a Japanese concept that unites the joy of life with a sense of purpose. The term is a combination of the Japanese words 'iki' (to live) and 'gai' (reason), which together signify "a reason to live." To guide us on this journey, we are going to explore the intersection of the four essential elements:  - Your passion (what you love) - Your vocation (what you're good at) - Your mission (what the world needs) - Your profession (what you can be paid for) https://www.betterup.com/blog/how-to-find-your-passionhttps://www.betterup.com/blog/how-to-find-what-you-are-good-athttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-in-world/201309/how-find-your-missionhttps://www.success.com/your-purpose-lies-at-the-intersection-of-these-3-things/ Aligning your passion with impact to create a purposeful fusion involves several key steps: - Identify Your Passion: Reflect on what activities, topics, or causes ignite a sense of joy and fulfillment in you. What could you spend hours doing without feeling bored or drained? - Assess the World's Needs: Consider the pressing issues, challenges, or gaps in society that resonate with you. What problems do you feel strongly about addressing or solving? - Find the Intersection: Look for areas where your passion and the world's needs intersect. This could involve brainstorming ideas, researching existing initiatives, or seeking inspiration from others who have successfully aligned their passions with impactful work. - Set Clear Goals: Define specific, measurable goals that reflect the impact you want to make. This could include targets related to community engagement, environmental sustainability, social justice, or other areas aligned with your passion and the world's needs. - Take Action: Start taking steps to turn your passion into meaningful action. This might involve volunteering, starting a project or initiative, or exploring career opportunities that align with your purpose. - Stay Flexible: Be open to adjusting your approach as you learn and grow. Your understanding of your passion and the world's needs may evolve over time, requiring you to adapt your plans accordingly. - Seek Support: Surround yourself with people who support your vision and can offer guidance, resources, and encouragement along the way. Collaborating with like-minded individuals or joining communities focused on purpose-driven work can also be beneficial. - Reflect and Refine: Regularly reflect on your progress and reassess how well you're aligning your passion with impact. Be willing to refine your approach based on what you learn and experience. CHALLENGE: Start taking steps to turn your passion into meaningful action. Align your passion with impact to create a purposeful fusion that not only brings fulfillment to your life but also contributes positively to the world around you.   I Know YOU Can Do It!

12 MAR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are exploring the phenomenon that is the Blue Zone as we embark on a life that’s thriving and not just surviving. Have you heard about the Blue Zone? Blue Zones are regions around the world where people live much longer than average, often reaching age 100 or older. These areas have been studied for their common lifestyle and environmental factors that contribute to longevity and overall well-being. Who doesn’t want to live longer IF you could feel good, achieve happiness, and be content? That’s the key, long life could be a burden if you are sick, lonely, and unfulfilled. So no matter where you are in your journey, you can pivot your thinking and embrace some new ideas to improve your quality of life and your longevity. Dan Buettner is an explorer, National Geographic Fellow, award-winning journalist and producer, and New York Times bestselling author. He discovered the five places in the world – dubbed blue zones – where people live the longest, healthiest lives.  Buettner’s work is now spread across the country in partnership with municipal governments, large employers, and health insurance companies to implement Blue Zones Projects in communities, workplaces, and universities. Blue Zones Projects are well-being initiatives that apply lessons from the blue zones to entire communities by focusing on changes to the local environment, public policy, and social networks. The program has dramatically improved the health of more than 5 million Americans to date. You may have seen his recent Netflix series, Live to be 100 where Dan travels around the world to discover five unique communities where people live extraordinarily long and vibrant lives. It really is a must-see for any age. I was really excited to learn the four principles that span each zone.  - Eating wisely  - Moving naturally  - Connecting with others - Having a purpose or outlook Sounds simple right? Wrong. As I dug into my own perception of health and wellness I saw some skewed thinking and a real opportunity to change the way I looked at some of these things. So let’s dig into each of these to explore what we “thought” and how that might shife with a new perspective.  https://www.verywellhealth.com/blue-zone-diet-foods-4159314https://www.verywellhealth.com/blue-zone-diet-foods-4159314https://www.lifedesigncenter.com/blog/BlueZone-MoveNaturallyhttps://fortune.com/well/2023/09/30/blue-zones-live-longest-healthy-community/https://www.forbes.com/sites/nelldebevoise/2023/10/06/the-power-of-purpose-how-ikigai-can-help-us-live-longer/?sh=29efafa824d8 Here are some key concepts of Blue Zone living: - Plant-based Diet: Blue Zone residents typically eat a plant-based diet rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains. They consume meat sparingly, often as a celebratory or small portion. - Physical Activity: Regular, natural movement is a part of daily life in Blue Zones. Residents engage in activities like walking, gardening, and manual labor. - Social Engagement: Strong social networks and close-knit communities are common in Blue Zones. Regular social interactions and support contribute to overall well-being. - Purpose and Meaning: Blue Zone residents often have a strong sense of purpose in life, whether through work, family, or community involvement. Having a reason to wake up each day is linked to longevity. - Stress Reduction: Strategies for managing stress, such as taking regular breaks, napping, or praying, are common in Blue Zones. These practices help reduce chronic stress, which is associated with various health issues. - Moderate Alcohol: In some Blue Zones, residents enjoy moderate amounts of alcohol, typically in the form of wine, with meals and in social settings. - Belonging to a Faith-based Community: Many Blue Zone residents are part of a faith-based community, which provides social support and a sense of belonging. - Family First: Blue Zone cultures often prioritize family and intergenerational relationships, with elders being highly respected and involved in family life. CHALLENGE: Re-evaluate your thinking on what contributes to a happy and healthy life. Be willing to exchange some ideas that may be skewed with new concepts that have healthier payoffs. These principles not only promote longevity but also contribute to a higher quality of life and overall well-being.   I Know YOU Can Do It!

5 MAR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are stepping up and taking personal responsibility to achieve true success. Understanding that empowerment comes through accountability. It’s time to own it; your past, present, and future vision. Aim without accuracy is merely wishful thinking, and without taking personal responsibility, growth is impossible. When we take responsibility for our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, we gain more control over our lives. This mindset encourages self-reflection, learning from mistakes, and actively seeking opportunities for improvement. It’s easy to throw up your hands and play the blame game while waiting for things to work out on their own. Taking the first step is more challenging but infinitely more rewarding; inventory what didn’t work out, why, how, and what YOU could do to enhance your role and alter the outcome.  Ultimately, personal responsibility empowers us to shape our own future and become the best version of ourselves. Taking personal responsibility doesn’t mean owning it ALL, or claiming the sole blame for all failures or unintentional outcomes. It means, looking deep into your life to see how your behavior played a part whether that was a starring role or a supportive character. It’s having the courage to say “Yes, I did it. I was operating on the knowledge I had at the time which was limited and as a result, I acted impulsively without the critical knowledge I needed to make an educated and positive move that protected myself and others.” But, having taken responsibility for my actions, I have learned and grown which will help me avoid similar situations in the future, and for that, I am grateful. Isn’t that so much more positive than playing the blame game full of shame and regret? So if you are scratching your head thinking, I’m not sure I have anything to take responsibility for….keep listening. Odds are you denied your part to quickly recover and move forward. Let’s revisit something to learn some new strategies and develop important tools we can use along our journey. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/power-accountability-why-taking-responsibility/https://wildeaboutwellbeing.com/2020/07/25/taking-responsibility-for-our-own-lives-my-5-steps-to-stop-letting-your-past-dictate-your-future/https://www.evolveinnature.com/blog/2023/1/4-responsibility-vs-blamehttps://www.evolveinnature.com/blog/2021/3/2/lost-in-the-drama-triangle-understanding-the-paradigm Taking personal responsibility for our past, present, and future involves a mindset shift and proactive steps to change our behaviors and attitudes. Here are some ways to start: - Acknowledge the past: Reflect on past actions and decisions without blame or judgment. Acknowledge mistakes and learn from them, understanding that they have helped shape who you are today. - Live in the present: Focus on the present moment and the choices you make now. Take ownership of your current circumstances and actions, knowing that they contribute to your future outcomes. - Set goals: Define what you want to achieve in the future and create a plan to get there. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps and take action towards them consistently. - Own your decisions: Accept that you are responsible for the decisions you make, whether they lead to success or failure. Learn from both outcomes and use them to make better decisions in the future. - Practice self-awareness: Pay attention to your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Notice patterns that may be holding you back and take steps to change them. - Seek feedback: Be open to feedback from others and use it to grow. Constructive criticism can help you see things from a different perspective and improve your self-awareness. - Be accountable: Hold yourself accountable for your actions and outcomes. Avoid making excuses or blaming others for your circumstances. - Learn and adapt: Embrace a growth mindset and see challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Be willing to adapt your approach based on new information or experiences. CHALLENGE: Taking personal responsibility is an ongoing process that requires self-reflection, resilience, and a commitment to growth. By adopting these practices, you can start taking control of your life and shaping a more fulfilling future. I Know YOU Can Do It!

27 FEB 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show….we are striving to embrace growth through recovery as we set out to reclaim YOU. We are embarking on a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation. It requires courage, resilience, and a willingness to ebrace change. Are you ready? Oh boy, that’s the question. How many times have you found yourself at a crossroads knowing you need to make a change but unsure about the next step? What to do and if you are capable enough to do it. Let’s first define recovery: a return to a normal state of health, mind, or strength. The action or process of regaining possession or control of something stolen or lost. What has been stolen or lost? We can all dig into our bag of regrets to find something we wish we could undo and to regain something we no longer have. By focusing on personal growth and self-empowerment, you can reclaim your authentic self and create a life that is meaningful and fulfilling. So that’s our aim. We are looking to regain our sense of self through discovery and awareness. Your recovery journey is personal but you shouldn’t go it alone. In fact, in my mind, it’s the second step - reach out for help after the first, surrendering to the idea that you aren’t able to do it alone.  News flash, if unhealthy habits were easy to overcome our human statistics would look a lot different.  Celebrate Recovery broadens their reach by addressing HURTS, HABITS, AND HANGUPS in their 12-step program offered in 20,000 churches around the world. CR adds the Spirit to the mix to help heal people suffering from addiction and abuse. The program addresses not just alcoholism and drug addiction, but also codependency, depression, eating disorders, gambling, sexual addiction, and sexual abuse.  A “hurt” could be classified as any life experience that may have damaged your heart, some offense against you that crippled your ability to deal with the world in a healthy way. “Habits” tend to be unhealthy patterns that often start as a perceived “remedy” for some problem in your life, but end up turning into a chronic bad behavior or addiction. Habits are the repeat, default scripts you run to when the going gets tough and continually leads to trouble in your life. “Hang-ups” are those roadblocks that keep you from progressing further in God’s plan for your life. They are often shaped by some bent thinking you may have received as a child, or some unhealthy attitude you may have adopted as a means of coping with life’s challenges. If you’re interested in checking them out…you can Google Celebrate Recovery programs in your area to find meeting times and places. Maybe, you’re just at the beginning stages of understanding where you are in your life in order to come to terms with the potential of making a change….HEY, that’s a starting point so keep listening! https://www.jordantarver.com/self-discoveryhttps://www.linkedin.com/pulse/self-discovery-first-step-towards-building-self-awareness-opusf/?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse_more-articles_related-content-cardhttps://royallifecenters.com/the-spiritual-principles-of-recovery-12-ways-you-can-practice-them-every-day/#:~:text=The%2012%20spiritual%20principles%20of%20recovery%20are%20as%20follows%3A%20acceptance,self-discipline%2C%20and%20service. Reclaiming yourself through recovery is a deeply personal journey that involves healing and growth. While the exact steps may vary from person to person, here are some general guidelines: - Recognize the Need for Change: Acknowledge that you want to make a change in your life and commit to the recovery process. - Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, therapists, and support groups who can help you through your recovery journey. - Educate Yourself: Learn about your condition or addiction, including its causes, effects, and treatment options. Knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions. - Set Goals: Define clear, achievable goals for your recovery. These goals can be small, manageable steps that help you stay focused and motivated. - Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Replace unhealthy behaviors with positive coping strategies, such as mindfulness, exercise, or creative activities. - Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This includes getting enough rest, eating healthily, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. - Address Underlying Issues: Identify and address any underlying issues that may have contributed to your condition or addiction, such as trauma or mental health disorders. - Celebrate Your Progress: Recognize and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This can help you stay motivated and focused on your recovery goals. - Stay Committed: Recovery is a lifelong process, and setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Stay committed to your recovery goals and seek help when you need it. - Help Others: Once you have made progress in your own recovery, consider helping others who are going through similar challenges. Sharing your experiences can be a source of strength and inspiration for others. CHALLENGE: Recovery is a unique and individual journey, so it's important to find what works best for YOU. Remember to be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate the ups and downs of the recovery process. Lean into your support as you learn and grow! I Know YOU Can Do It!